My husband, Andy, and I want to thank the Tri-City community for their incredible generosity to the benefit for our friend, Becky Morris.

We are overwhelmed at the gracious response of local businesses, our family and friends, and friends of friends. They have illustrated that community is not bound by city limits nor by familiar faces -- and that the human spirit will rise to the occasion when stirred by the beautiful grace of compassion.

Included in this circle of assistance is the Tri-City Herald for the article that they published to help us spread the word. Our special gratitude to Tony Roma's and Templeman's Meat Market, Caon de Sol Winery, Concert Production Services, Shelby's Floral, and the auctioneer team, Mike Talbot and Bobby Long.

There are so many more businesses that, without hesitation, offered donations to the auction, making it a success beyond our wildest hopes.

Words cannot express our gratitude. Becky's mother said it best: "They talk about 'Minnesota nice' but I think Washington has us beat!" Thank you, thank you, Tri-Cities. Becky will be able to visit her mother and family in Minnesota. and spend precious time with her baby girl and husband because of your giving kindness. That is a beautiful, priceless gift.

JOSIE MICHEL, Kennewick